Long Island Restaurants

Chipotle Mexican Grill

Yes, Virginia, fast food at a national chain can be organic, fresh, and prepared with care. At least that's the philosophy of Chipotle Mexican Grill, whose first Long Island outlet is located across from Ikea. The Denver-based chain was founded by Steve Ells, who cooked under Jeremiah Towers at Stars in San Francisco. Ells wanted to bring that restaurant's style to a simple taqueria and opened one in Denver back in 1993. He offered naturally raised meats (like Niman Ranch pork and Bell & Evans chicken) as well as organic vegetables as part of a small and reasonably priced menu. Now that store has expanded into a chain with close to 600 eateries nationwide.

Diners move through a line, interacting with line cooks to customize their orders. The menu is comprised of four basic items: burrito, taco, fajita burrito or tortilla-less burrito "bol." Ingredients to select from include barbacoa (spicy shredded beef braised with chipotle), carnitas (highly seasoned seared and braised pork), guacamole and black beans. Flavors are uniformly vibrant, ingredients bright and fresh.

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